Marshall Hamburger: Australian Idol 2025 Winner – The Retro-Pop Champion

Marshall Performing on stage at australian idol

Marshall Hamburger, the 19-year-old (born June 1, 2005) singer, songwriter, and pianist from Doonan, Queensland (Sunshine Coast), was crowned the winner of Australian Idol Season 10 (2025) on April 7, 2025.

In a high-energy grand finale, he defeated runner-up Iilysh Retallick and third-place Gisella Colletti after a record-breaking 1.2 million public votes. The victory earned him $100,000 in prize money, an exclusive recording package with Hive Sound Studios, and the release of his album The Idol Collection the following day.

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Affectionately nicknamed “Burger Boy” by the judges, Marshall’s real surname is indeed Hamburger — no stage gimmick! His retro-pop style, piano skills, and quirky, nerdy charm (he’s a self-proclaimed gamer and fan of classic rock/pop-soul) won over the nation, making him a standout from the start.

Background and Early Life

Raised in the semi-rural town of Doonan, Marshall grew up immersed in music thanks to his musician parents (who run a local music school).

His early years even included time in India due to his parents’ work. Inspired by artists like Stevie Wonder, Michael McDonald, and classic acts, he formed his 11-piece soul-pop band Instant Soup in 2023. He credits a supportive family and community for sparking his passion, often watching performers at the school and thinking, “That’s so cool—I want that.”

Audition and Journey on Australian Idol

Marshall auditioned with a captivating rendition of “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” by The Police, impressing judges Marcia Hines, Amy Shark, and Kyle Sandilands. Amy called it “incredible” with goosebumps, while Kyle dubbed him a “seasoned genius musician.” He earned a Golden Ticket and the nickname “Burger Boy,” advancing through the Top 30.

Key performances and milestones:

  • Audition: “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” (The Police) — Bookended his journey in the finale.
  • Top 10/earlier live shows: “Higher Love” (Steve Winwood), “As The Days Go By” (Daryl Braithwaite) — Amy Shark called the latter “mesmerizing.”
  • Other standouts: “Beautiful Things” (Benson Boone), “Bennie and the Jets” (Elton John), “Hip To Be Square” (Huey Lewis and the News).
  • Grand Finale highlights: “Playing to Win” (John Farnham), a duet with Leo Sayer on “You Make Me Feel Like Dancing,” and a reprise of his audition song to seal the win.

Judges praised his transformation from shy auditionee to superstar, with Amy noting he “morphed into a superstar” from the first piano note.

Post-Idol Career

Since winning, Marshall has released his debut single “Thought Of You!” (a yacht-rock polished original about high school love) and continues performing.

He emphasizes authenticity: “Be yourself and put yourself out there 110 per cent.” His album The Idol Collection features his show performances and debuted strongly on charts. He remains active on social media (@marshallhamburgermusic on Instagram) and performs live, including with his band.

Clearing Rumors and Personal Details

  • Trans rumors: Online searches like “Marshall Hamburger trans” exist, but there’s no evidence or basis for them. Marshall identifies as male, and speculation appears unfounded — his focus is music, not personal identity discussions.
  • Girlfriend: He has mentioned a girlfriend who encouraged him to audition (per interviews), but keeps personal life private — no public details or photos shared.

What Makes Marshall Standout?

  • Retro-pop flair with modern energy.
  • Piano mastery and soulful, joyful performances.
  • Relatable “nerd” charm — proving quirky authenticity wins hearts.
  • Humility and positivity, praised by judges and crew.

Catch his full performances on 7plus. From Doonan to the Idol crown, Marshall Hamburger’s journey shows raw talent and staying true to yourself can make you Australia’s next big star. Congratulations, Burger Boy — the future is yours! 🎤✨